I'm an investor and agent located just north of you in Wauconda!

But after an exchange - sign the purchase documents with one pen and pick up another pen to sign the refi docs :)Another strategy you could consider is reinvesting into multiple properties, where you purchase the first property cash (ensures some security and concentrates the equity) and the second property with a mortgage.

Location!

Job, family, retirement, location, world, moving,  etc3.  

Like @Sarah Miller and @Marcy Albrecht said, you can buy places within the city limits but it's still about location. with that said, i'm always looking out for my end game. one of the issues with buying in certain parts of canton is that when you decide you're done, you may not be able to unload your properties.

I’m located in West Village and am serious about investing and connecting!

However, a larger home may consider another can or two in certain locations based on proximity to the kitchen or bathroom.

I know I need to hold the security deposit in an escrow account.  

In smaller/tourist locations the best places fill up fast and knowing you need a reservation is huge.

That’s an incredible deal—congratulations on securing 100% seller financing!